China places coast guard under military command

The Philippine Star reports: “In a move seen as a warning to other countries, China has placed its coast guard under the country’s army: Starting July 1, the leadership of the Chinese coast guard will be transferred from the State Oceanic Administration to China’s Central Military Commission. Chinese state-run Xinhua reported that a marine police force under the Chinese People’s Armed Police Force would function as a law enforcement body while securing the country’s maritime rights. China’s coast guard would be in charge of fighting criminal maritime activities, search and rescue, law enforcement, environmental protection, fishery management and anti-smuggling efforts.”